The key elements to maintaining a healthy growing area are set out below. As ever, all links will take you to detailed advice from Gardening Organic.
Keeping your soil in good condition
follow the guidelines set out in earlier articles to help reduce soil pests and diseases, and to encourage strong plant growth
Remember that weak plants are prone to attack from pests and diseases
Sourcing healthy plants that are suitable for conditions of your growing area
Check that any seeds, tubers, plants, fruit bushes, shrubs and trees you purchase are organic in origin, and show no signs of disease
Save your own seeds from healthy plants
Grow plants that suit the location and soil type - check the labels or ask the supplier
Choose varieties that have some resistance to pests and diseases
Grow a mix of plants to help increase biodiversity but also to prevent diseases from spreading
Avoid planting the same crops in the same place every year
Keep good airflow around plants
Being observant and spotting potential problems early
Look out for early signs of pests and diseases
Frequent and early intervention will stop problems escalating
Practicing good hygiene
Keep tools and other equipment clean to prevent transmission of diseases. Use hot water and natural cleaning products (e.g. vinegar, bicarbonate of soda) and not cleaning liquids or bleach
Wash down greenhouses and poyltunnels annually, inside and out. As well as removing pests and diseases it will ensure that as much sunlight as possible can get in
Check empty pots and containers before re-using to clear out overwintering pests
Make sure that any growing medium you use is either home made using organic practices, or is certified as being from an organic source, and is peat-free
Use homemade paper pots and wooden trays if possible or buy pots made from paper, plant wastes and other biodegradable products. Re-use plastic pots and containers.
